Best Ways to Keep Hair Healthy After Bleaching: Proven Tips for Strong and Shiny Hair

Bleaching can instantly transform the look of your hair, but it is one of the most damaging chemical treatments. Hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, and melanin break down the bonds between keratin and melanin, leaving your hair fragile and dry. The American Academy of Dermatology states that bleaching weakens hair shafts, so proper care is essential afterward.

The complete guide to maintaining healthy hair after bleaching, backed by expert advice and evidence-based methods.

1. Rehydrate deeply to restore moisture.

The cuticles of bleached hair are lifted, allowing moisture to escape. Deep Hydration is the most critical step for post-bleach hair care.

Use Deep Conditioning Masks

Dermatologists suggest using deep conditioners or hair masks twice a week. You should look for ingredients that are moisturizing or reparative, such as:

• Keratin hydrolyzed
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Shea butter
• Coconut oil or Argan oil

This product helps to smooth out the cuticles and restore hair fibre elasticity.

Use leave-in conditioners

The conditioners that are left in the hair reduce friction and tangles.

A 2021 article in the International Journal of Trichology found that leave-in treatments reduce hair breakage and soften chemically treated hair.

1. Protein treatments to rebuild hair strength

To counteract this damage, regular and strong protein treatments are essential. Protein treatments can help to counteract this damage. Protein fills in gaps within the hair shaft and improves strength, flexibility, and durability. Key protein ingredients include:

• Collagen
• Keratin
• Silk Protein
• Wheat Protein

What is the frequency of protein consumption?

Experts recommend using a mask every 2 to 3 weeks. Overusing protein may cause hair to become stiff and brittle. Balance is key.

• Week 1: Deep Moisturizing Mask
• Week 2: Protein treatment
• Week 3: Hydration Mask

Hair will not become overly soft or stiff if you follow a balanced regimen.

1. Reduce Heat Styling to Avoid Additional Damage.

Heat can further weaken hair, causing split ends and breakage. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you limit heat exposure following bleaching.

If you must use heat tools for your hair

• Use a spray to protect against heat.
• Temperatures should be kept between 150-160 °C (300-320°F).
• Select ionic tools or ceramics for less wear.
• Before blow-drying, air-dry your hair up to 50%-70%.

Reduce heat styling to maintain hair elasticity, shine and structural integrity.

1. Use gentle, sulphate-free, and colour-safe products.

It’s essential to select the right shampoo for your hair type, such as one that is sulphate-free. You should choose a shampoo that is sulphate-free for your particular hair type.

The Journal of Cosmetic Science reports that the use of sulphates, such as sodium laurylsulfate, can cause hair to become dry. Look for a label that says:

• “Sulphate-free”
• “Paraben-free”
• “Colour-safe”
• “Moisturizing formula”

Use gentle products to maintain the softness of your skin and avoid colour fade.

1. Reduce washing frequency to maintain moisture.

The colour will fade faster if you overwash bleached or colored hair.

Recommended washing Frequency

• Hair Drying: Two times per week
• Normal Hair: 2 to 3 times per week
• Oily hair: Use a gentle shampoo every 2 days

It is possible to extend the time between washings by using dry shampoo. This will not remove moisture.

1. How to Protect bleached hair from UV, chlorine and pollution

The environment is more sensitive to bleached hair. Here are some tips to protect your hair against the elements:

• Spray a UV protectant.
• When the sun is intense, wear a hat to protect your skin.
• To reduce the chlorine absorption, rinse your hair before and after swimming.
• Use a leave-in protection before going to the beach or swimming pool.

Preserving colour in bleached hair and preventing breakage is possible by protecting it from the environment.